Foundations, in most instances, are the fundraising arm of school districts. They are organized to receive taxdeductible donations, do fundraising, keep an accounting of individual school contributions, and disburse funds to schools for projects.
If a PTA has identified a substantial need at its school that will take considerable funds to implement, coordination with the school district foundation is recommended before embarking on a major fundraising campaign. The PTA can work with the foundation to have parents contribute directly to the foundation for the project and, if possible, apply for matching funds from the foundation.
Remember: PTAs are not in the fundraising business. Foundations are established to do this. PTA funds should always be used to further PTA’s mission and purposes. A PTA does not raise money to be diverted into other channels, such as providing support to other organizations or individuals, no matter how worthy. The region director or designee may serve on the school district foundation board when invited by the foundation to do so.
Working with the Foundation
The region director/designee acts as a liaison between the school district foundation and council/ local PTAs:
- Serving as a resource by providing input and direction as to community and educational needs.
- Working with the school district foundation in the development of community-wide projects.
Local PTAs act as a liaison between the parents and the foundation:
- Identifying needs in their school/community (relaying this information through the region director/designee).
- Informing parents of the function of a foundation.
- Informing parents of current foundation projects.
- Informing parents of current funding needs of the foundation.
- Local PTAs may select fundraising projects suggested by the foundation.
- PTAs may not fund raise for the foundation, although they may work with the foundation on specific PTA projects.
If your PTA is granting money to the school or foundation, please follow these grant guidelines and agreement